Do you feel like an imposter at work? Do you feel like everyone will find out that you’re a fraud and don’t know enough? Do you struggle to feel like you deserve a seat at the table?
I recently conducted a poll on LinkedIn asking what the biggest challenge is in building confidence at work. The results are in, and they’re telling:
- Impostor Syndrome: 50%
- Navigating Office Politics: 30%
- Public Speaking: 10%
- Balancing Work & Personal Life: 10%
It’s no surprise that impostor syndrome topped the list. It’s something many of us, especially women in tech, grapple with. Many of my clients bring up imposter syndrome in our coaching sessions.
The persistent feeling of being a fraud, despite evidence of your achievements, can be overwhelming. I experienced these feelings often in my previous role as COO of my edtech company, RYCOR.
But here’s the thing—impostor syndrome is not just an obstacle. It’s also a gift 🎁
The gift of imposter syndrome
Impostor syndrome often appears when you’re stepping outside your comfort zone, tackling new challenges, or aiming for growth. It’s a sign that you’re pushing your boundaries and reaching for something greater 🚀
It’s an indicator that you’re on the right path. The discomfort you feel means you’re doing something meaningful—something that has the potential to propel you forward.
Instead of letting impostor syndrome hold you back, reframe it as a signal of growth 🪴 Embrace the unease as a part of your journey toward mastering new skills and reaching new heights.
Ways to tackle impostor syndrome
📄 Acknowledge your achievements: keep a record of your accomplishments, big or small. When impostor syndrome creeps in, revisit this list to remind yourself of the value you bring to the table.
🗣️ Share your feelings: talking about your feelings with trusted colleagues or mentors can be incredibly relieving. You’ll often find that others have experienced similar feelings, which can help normalize the experience.
➕ Challenge negative thoughts: when self-doubt arises, challenge it with evidence. Ask yourself, “What proof do I have that I’m not capable?” Usually, the evidence will point to your competence rather than inadequacy.
❓ Seek out feedback: constructive feedback from peers and supervisors can provide an objective view of your performance, helping you see yourself more clearly and reduce the distortion created by impostor syndrome.
🤗 Embrace lifelong learning: accept that you don’t need to know everything. Continuous learning is a strength, not a weakness. By embracing a growth mindset, you can view challenges as opportunities rather than threats.
Impostor syndrome may never fully disappear, but by reframing it as a sign of growth and using it as motivation, you can turn this perceived weakness into a powerful tool for your confidence journey.
I’m cheering you on for your continued growth and confidence ❤️
To become the unstoppable version of you, send an email to coaching@annagradie.com to sign up for my 6-week Autumn Confidence Bootcamp starting September 23. It’s filling up fast – so don’t miss out.
Lots of love,
-Anna
